Female Genital Mutilation

  Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): Understanding the Practice and Its Impact

Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) refers to the partial or total removal of external female genitalia for non-medical reasons. It’s a deeply rooted cultural practice that persists in certain parts of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia, often justified by tradition, social norms, or misconceptions about purity and sexuality.

FGM is internationally recognized as a violation of human rights. It causes severe physical and psychological harm, with long-term consequences such as chronic pain, infection, complications during childbirth, and trauma. Despite the cultural justifications surrounding it, no form of FGM provides any health benefit.

Cultural Roots and Global Response

FGM continues to be practiced due to social pressure, gender expectations, and beliefs about honor and virginity. Many communities see it as a necessary rite of passage or a condition for marriage, but growing global awareness has challenged these norms.

International organizations like UNICEF and UNFPA have worked together through the Joint Programme on the Elimination of FGM, promoting education, legislation, and community-based advocacy to end the practice. Progress has been made—more countries are criminalizing FGM and empowering women to speak out—but millions remain at risk.

Ending FGM requires more than laws. It depends on changing mindsets, strengthening education, and ensuring girls’ autonomy over their own bodies.

  FAQ

What are the external female reproductive organs?
They include the vulva, labia majora, labia minora, clitoris, and vaginal opening. Together, these make up the external genitalia, often targeted in FGM procedures.

What does castrating a female mean?
Female castration refers to the removal or damage of reproductive organs, often used interchangeably—but incorrectly—with FGM. Both involve harm, but FGM focuses on external genitalia.

Why do people have circumcised?
Male circumcision is typically performed for religious, cultural, or health reasons. Female genital cutting, however, has no medical benefit and is considered harmful by all major health organizations.

What is the joint program on elimination of FGM?
The UNFPA-UNICEF Joint Programme works globally to end FGM through education, legal reform, and community engagement. It supports local leaders and survivors advocating for change.

Why did Muslims cut private parts?
While some communities link FGM to religion, Islam does not mandate it. Many Islamic scholars condemn the practice as cultural rather than religious, urging its complete abolition.

Why are 80% of men circumcised?
Male circumcision rates vary by region. In some areas, high prevalence stems from religious practice or health campaigns, unlike FGM, which lacks any health justification.